Mr. President,

China welcomes you convening today’s high-level meeting in commemoration of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia

The world today is mired in increased volatility, crises, conflicts, incitement to religious hatred and racism, and the intensification of Islamophobia and other forms of discrimination and xenophobia, which is deplorable. China applauds the submission by Pakistan and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation of the draft resolution entitled Measures to Combat Islamophobia and supports the United Nations in playing an active role in combating Islamophobia. China is honored to be a co-sponsor of the Resolution. To address and combat Islamophobia, we must tackle both the symptoms and the root causes.

First, China urges all countries to adopt a zero-tolerance attitude, take concrete actions to combat discrimination and violence against Muslims, prohibit incitement to hatred on the basis of religion or belief, and put an end to impunity. Freedom of expression should not be used as a talisman for hate speech, still less be used as an excuse for government inaction.

Secondly, China advocates strengthening dialogue and exchanges among different civilizations and religions, rejecting discrimination and prejudice against specific civilizations and religions, opposing the erroneous and one-sided arguments about so-called clash of civilizations and the superiority of certain civilizations, and championing equality, mutual learning, dialogue, and inclusiveness between civilizations. Political figures and the media should shoulder their due legal, moral, and social responsibilities.

Thirdly, China calls for ensuring the right to development for all, eradicating the breeding grounds for discrimination and intolerance, such as poverty, marginalization, and economic disparities, and promoting inclusive and equitable development. To this end, we must accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, so that no country and no one will be left behind.

Mr. President.

Chinese and Islamic civilizations are both treasures for humanity, and both have made great contributions to the progress and development of human society. From the ancient Silk Road to the joint building of the Belt and Road Initiative, the friendly relations between China and Muslim countries have transcended time, with ever-deepening exchanges and cooperation. This has not only vigorously promoted the cultural prosperity and economic development of both sides, but also provided useful experience for exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations and countries.

To resolve current global challenges, we need to not only rely on material and technological means, but also the spiritual power. President Xi Jinping has put forward the Global Civilization Initiative, which advocates respecting the diversity of world civilizations, promoting the common values of all humankind, emphasizing civilization inheritance and innovation, and strengthening international people-to-people and cultural exchanges and cooperation. The Initiative points the direction forward for different civilizations, ethnic groups, and religions to live in harmony and develop together. It is also the basis and guide for us to address common challenges and open up a shared future. We look forward to working with all countries, including Muslim countries, to uphold openness and inclusiveness, promote exchanges and mutual understanding among civilizations, and build a beautiful and harmonious world together.

Thank you, Mr. President.